Navigating Societal Norms and Patriarchal Structures in Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

Abstract

This research aims to explore the effects of societal norms and patriarchal structures on women in Mohsin Hamid's Exit West (2017), through a close examination of female characters. The study intends to examine the portrayal of women, their agency, and the societal constraints in a male-dominated society. The researcher explores and analyzes the study through the theoretical framework of feminist theory (1898) given by Gilman. The significance of the study is to unveil the dominance of strict societal norms and patriarchal structures on women in Exit West (2017). The findings of this research study explores that women characters in Exit West (2017) are forced to follow the customs, norms, and traditions fixed by the stern patriarchal society. These social limitations throughout the novel restrict her right of individuality and independence in the society. The conclusion of this research explores the ways in which these strict male-centered society exploits women's rights and freedom. These social norms and male-dominant structures undermine women's individual liberty including emotional, physical, and sexual lives.